HC Deb 18 February 1975 vol 886 cc1090-1
6. Miss Richardson

asked the Secretary of State for Employment if he will give consideration to declaring 1st May a paid public holiday.

The Minister of State, Department of Employment (Mr. Albert Booth)

The Government have received a number of representations about the declaration of a May Day bank holiday which we are at present considering.

Miss Richardson

I welcome that reply, particularly since the undertaking to consider the matter was included in Labour's programme in 1973. I am sure the House will agree that such a move will make a great gesture towards the operation of the social contract. May I underline that such a holiday must be paid? We should remember that certain industries with wages councils have to specify holidays or there is no obligation to pay. Many people were not paid for New Year's Day because of this situation and, therefore, I hope that 1st May will be regarded as a paid holiday.

Mr. Booth

Bank holidays apply in law only to banking and certain other financial institutions. Nearly all employers in England and Wales observe them as paid holidays. I am confident that they will observe any new bank holiday that is instituted.

Miss Fookes

Will the Minister say what celebration we are supposed to be having on 1st May as a public holiday?

Mr. Booth

It might be more appropriate if we announced that at a time when we are ready to declare May Day as a public holiday. I am surprised to find any hon. Member who is not aware of the tremendous political significance of May Day to the whole of the Labour movement.